Talking to an Insurance Adjuster About a Car Accident
By Christopher Hoffmann
May. 22, 2018 10:12a
If you have recently been in an accident, then you are no doubt finding out that things are not always as easy as you had hoped. Dealing with an insurance company can be both time consuming and extremely frustrating.
Even if it is an arduous process, there isn’t an alternative. So, to be sure that you get all that you are entitled to, it is important to know what to do and what not to do when speaking with the insurance adjuster.
Be polite and maintain your composure
It is really easy to lose your composure when you are asked the same questions over and over. Unfortunately, when speaking with an insurance company, you won’t always have the same person on the other line and things from your previous conversations aren’t always recorded properly. Try to stay calm and don’t get upset with the adjuster. You want them on your side and working hard to get your claim approved.
Always take notes
To make sure that things are recorded every time that you call, make notes of all of your correspondences with the insurance company. Always get the name and badge number of the adjuster that you talk with. They will probably not be able to give out their last name due to security reasons, but they should have an identifying number with the company. That way you have someone to hold accountable and talk to when you need them.
Give only the facts
If an adjuster is asking you about something related to your car accident, make sure to only give them the facts. If they ask you to guess or give your opinion, simply state the facts and nothing else. It is okay to say things like “I don’t remember” or “I don’t know.” That way you don’t end up saying things that could jeopardize your case if a lawsuit is necessary.
Don’t give any information about your injuries
If an adjuster asks about your car accident injuries, do not give out any details. If you give them information, then they can record it and use it against you if things should escalate. If asked, just say you can’t give out any information and keep it at that. Be sure, however, that your medical information is recorded somewhere safe.
Don’t give any recorded statements
Everything that you give permission for the insurance company to record is on official record and can be used against you during the negotiation or the trial phase of a car accident. Refuse to give any recorded statements unless your St. Louis car accident attorney is with you.
If you are in an accident, dealing with an insurance company and trying to get the compensation that you deserve, it is not best to handle the situation alone. All that you say, even the smallest detail, can be used against you by the insurance company to limit or deny your claim. Make sure to have a St. Louis car accident lawyer at your side before you speak to an adjuster to make sure that you don’t say anything to hurt your case.